Criminal Defense Lawyer in North Kansas City, Missouri | KC Defense Counsel

KC Defense Counsel provides criminal defense representation in North Kansas City, Missouri, serving clients charged with DUI/DWI, misdemeanors, assault, domestic violence, and warrant matters. Our attorneys Jordan Watson, Justin Hunt, and R. Christopher Simons have defended hundreds of cases in Clay County courts, including municipal court and Clay County Circuit Court in Liberty. We offer free consultations and have achieved dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges for local residents. Call 816-287-3787 for immediate legal help.

Our Services:

• DUI/DWI Defense | Misdemeanor Defense | Assault Defense
• Domestic Violence Defense | Warrant Defense

Why Choose KC Defense Counsel

Local Court Experience

Our criminal lawyers have defended over 200 cases in North Kansas City Municipal Court and Clay County Circuit Court. We regularly appear before local judges and work with Clay County prosecutors on cases originating from North Kansas City Police Department arrests, Missouri State Highway Patrol stops on I-35 and I-29, and Clay County Sheriff investigations.

Awards & Recognition

• Super Lawyers Rising Stars
• National Trial Lawyers Top 100
• Three Best Rated DWI Lawyers Kansas City

Criminal Defense Services in North Kansas City, Missouri

DUI/DWI Defense in North Kansas City

Pulled over for suspected DUI on I-35, I-29, or Armour Road? The consequences start immediately—licence suspension notices arrive within days, and prosecutors in Clay County move quickly on these cases. North Kansas City sits at a major highway intersection, making it a hotspot for traffic enforcement and sobriety checkpoints.

Our defense lawyers challenge every element prosecutors rely on. Field sobriety tests are subjective and often administered incorrectly. Breathalyzer machines require specific maintenance and calibration. Traffic stops need legal justification. We find the weaknesses in the state’s case and exploit them.

Learn more about DUI defense ?

Misdemeanor Defense in North Kansas City

From shoplifting allegations at local retailers to assault charges stemming from bar disputes, misdemeanor cases can derail your life. These aren’t minor inconveniences—they’re permanent marks on your criminal record visible to employers, landlords, and licensing boards. Municipal court handles initial proceedings, but cases often transfer to Clay County Circuit Court.

Our legal team works toward the best possible outcome: dismissal, diversion programs that keep your record clean, or reduced charges that minimize long-term impact. Early intervention makes the difference.

Read our guide to misdemeanor defense ?

Assault Lawyer in North Kansas City

Assault charges in this jurisdiction range from fourth-degree misdemeanors to serious felonies. Maybe it was self-defense. Maybe you were falsely accused. Maybe the situation was mutual combat where both parties are equally responsible. Regardless, you’re facing jail time and a criminal record unless you mount an effective defense.

We investigate what really happened. Witness statements often contradict each other. Video evidence tells a different story than police reports. Our criminal defense attorneys build cases that challenge the prosecution’s narrative.

See assault defense strategies ?

Domestic Violence Lawyer in North Kansas City

When police respond to domestic calls, someone’s getting arrested—that’s the reality of mandatory arrest policies. North Kansas City officers follow strict protocols, meaning even minor arguments can lead to criminal charges, protective orders, and bond conditions that disrupt your life. You can’t contact your family, can’t return home, and face potential jail time.

Our lawyers challenge these cases aggressively. Many domestic violence allegations involve he-said-she-said situations with no physical evidence. We cross-examine witnesses, expose inconsistencies, and negotiate for counselling-based resolutions that result in dismissals.

Learn about domestic violence defense ?

Warrant Defense in North Kansas City

Missed a court date? Have an old traffic ticket you forgot about? That warrant isn’t going away. North Kansas City police and Clay County authorities actively enforce outstanding warrants. One routine traffic stop and you’re spending the night in jail instead of going home.

We handle warrant recalls and underlying cases simultaneously. Call us at 816-287-3787 and we’ll verify the warrant, schedule a court appearance, and work to resolve everything without you facing arrest.

Read how we resolve warrants ?

Court Information

Clay County Circuit Court

Address: 11 S. Water Street, Liberty, MO 64068
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Handles: All DWI prosecutions, serious misdemeanors, appeals from municipal courts

North Kansas City Municipal Court

Address: 2010 Howell Street, North Kansas City, MO 64116
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Handles: City ordinance violations, some misdemeanors within city limits

Important: Even if arrested by local police, DWI charges are filed in Clay County Circuit Court. We handle cases in both jurisdictions.

North Kansas City Police Department: (816) 274-6013
Clay County Sheriff: (816) 407-3700
Clay County Prosecutor: (816) 736-8300 

What Happens After Arrest

If arrested by the North Kansas City Police Department, you’ll be transported to the police station (2010 Howell Street) for booking or directly to the Clay County Detention Center in Liberty. Booking includes fingerprinting, photographing, and background checks. Most first-time misdemeanor and DUI defendants are released on bond within 8-24 hours.

For DUI arrests, you have 15 days to request an administrative hearing to challenge license suspension. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately to preserve this right and begin building your defense.

Meet Our Defense Attorneys

Jordan R. Watson – Super Lawyers Rising Star

Defended thousands of criminal cases, including DUI/DWI at all levels. Licensed in Missouri. Recognized by Super Lawyers Rising Stars and National Trial Lawyers Top 100.

Justin Hunt

University of Kansas (B.A. Political Science, 2011), Santa Clara University School of Law. Hundreds of successful criminal defense cases with aggressive courtroom advocacy.

R. Christopher Simons

Born in Kansas City, raised in Richmond & Kearney, Missouri. Graduated Suma Cum Laude from William Jewell College. Extensive trial experience in Clay County courts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if I’m arrested on I-35 or I-29 near the highway interchange?

A: You’ll be taken to North Kansas City Police Department for booking or Clay County Detention Center in Liberty. For misdemeanors and first-time DUI, you may be released on bond within 8-24 hours. Contact a lawyer before making statements to police.

Q: Can you appear in court for me?

A: Often yes. For most municipal court cases, we appear on your behalf. Some Clay County Circuit Court cases may require your presence, but we minimize court appearances.

Q: What are my rights when pulled over?

A: You have the right to remain silent beyond providing license, registration, and insurance. You can refuse vehicle searches unless the officer has probable cause or a warrant. Comply with lawful orders but state clearly if you don’t consent to searches.

Q: What evidence do prosecutors need?

A: Prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. For DUI cases, they rely on breath/blood tests, field sobriety tests, officer observations, and dashcam video. For assault cases, they need witness testimony, physical evidence, and proof of intent. We challenge weak evidence at every stage.

Q: Can charges be dismissed in Clay County?

A: Possibly. Common dismissal grounds include insufficient evidence, illegal search/seizure, and prosecutor’s discretion. We’ve obtained hundreds of dismissals throughout the county.

Q: How does bail work in this area?

A: Bail is set based on charge severity, criminal history, and flight risk. Municipal court handles bond for city violations. Clay County Circuit Court sets bond for state charges. You can pay the full amount, use a bondsman (typically 10% fee), or request a reduction hearing.

Q: How long do cases take in this jurisdiction?

A: Municipal court cases typically resolve in 30-45 days. Clay County Circuit Court cases take 60-90 days for misdemeanors. Timeline depends on complexity, evidence, and court scheduling.

Contact KC Defense Counsel in North Kansas City

Call: 816-287-3787

Criminal charges can affect your future, employment, and driving privileges. The sooner you consult with a criminal lawyer, the more options may be available.

Free consultation. Confidential. No obligation.

KC Defense Counsel serves North Kansas City and all of Clay County, Missouri. Licensed Missouri criminal defense attorneys. Results may vary based on individual circumstances. This website is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.